John Carnifax: A Lifetime Passion for Parks and Recreation
John Carnifax is the newest member of the Land Planning and Recreation team, and he will be working in our Williamsburg office. John has 42 years of experience in parks and recreation. He served as a director for 29 of those years. McGill is honored to have him as part of our team.
Finding the Right Path
Growing up, John knew he wanted to be either a park ranger or a PE teacher and coach. He loves the outdoors and sports, so he wanted a career that aligned with his interests. In college at Old Dominion University, John tested a variety of career paths. In his later college years, Old Dominion started a Parks and Recreation program, which peaked his interest.
Over his career, John has had lots of amazing mentors. In college, he worked part-time for the Portsmouth, Virginia Parks and Recreation department. Jim Greiner, the former Director of Parks and Recreation in Portsmouth, served as a crucial mentor in John’s career. John also worked for a white-water rafting company. This allowed him to experience parks and recreation in both the public and private sectors and showed him the endless options available to him. After graduating from Old Dominion, John was mentored by a variety of excellent parks and recreation directors. John believes that mentorship isn’t limited to one individual.
Changes in the Industry
Throughout the years, John Carnifax has seen the profession change. He noted that in this field, political changes impact the job. Parks and recreation staff have to adjust to newly elected local officials and the demands of the citizens. He has also seen a change in the need for parks to generate more revenue. Less tax dollars are going to support park upkeep and entrance fees, and parking fees are becoming more popular. John also said that it is important to adapt to advancing technologies and incorporate them into the work of designing and building recreational facilities.
John is very excited about the future of parks and recreation. Bond initiatives presented are passing overwhelmingly (70-80%). Residents want to see more parks and recreation facilities built in their communities. Parks and recreation facilities provide immense value to the lifestyles of citizens.
Looking Forward to Continued Growth
John is married and is thankful for how supportive his wife has been of his career, especially with working weekends and nights. He has two children, two grandchildren, and a dog named Molly. He enjoys long bike trips and hikes. He is a member of the National Recreation and Park Association and the Virginia Parks Society. He looks forward to the opportunity to grow and work with McGill.
Here is a piece of wisdom that he brings into his work: “Everyone you work with teaches you something. I learned and grew by working with good people.” — John Carnifax
Learn More
Click here to learn more about McGill’s land planning and recreation team and how we can best support your community. You can also reach out to Mike Norris, PLA, the Land Planning and Recreation Practice Area Leader, at mike.norris@mcgillassociates.com for more information.
